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Three individuals, including two educators and the principal of Newman International Academy (NIA) High School located at 1111 Gibbins Rd, Arlington, TX 76011, have been arrested as part of an investigation into inappropriate relationships and child grooming, WFAA revealed.
The NIA Police Department (NIA PD) reported that Ruel Barbee and Gabrielle Little, both educators at the charter school, were terminated on February 6, 2025, following allegations of misconduct. Barbee was arrested the same day on charges of an improper relationship with a student, while Little turned herself into authorities on February 10 on a charge of child grooming.
According to an arrest affidavit, Barbee began communicating with a student in May 2024 and later escalated the relationship to inappropriate physical contact by December. Little’s alleged involvement remains under investigation, with additional accusations surfacing regarding prior incidents of misconduct at previous employers.
Rick Adams, the principal of NIA High School, was arrested on February 12. Authorities allege that Adams tampered with critical evidence by deleting electronic communications and failed to report allegations of abuse in a timely manner, as required by law. Witness statements suggest Adams had prior knowledge of inappropriate relationships involving staff and students.
Adams also faces accusations of allowing the spouse of a suspect to retrieve personal property from the school during the investigation. He has been charged with tampering with evidence, tampering with a witness, and failing to report abuse.
The investigation has uncovered that two of the suspects had histories of inappropriate behavior at previous institutions. NIA PD Chief Matthew Antkowiak stated that these incidents were mishandled or not reported, which allowed the individuals to gain employment at the school.
“This is a systemic failure,” Antkowiak said during a press conference. “Schools and churches across this country are dropping the ball when it comes to protecting children. Policies and procedures need to change because what we have now is not working.”
Antkowiak also revealed that the investigation has expanded to include other educational institutions and churches across multiple states, with state and federal agencies now involved.
Parents and students have expressed a mix of outrage and hope as the investigation unfolds. Vernedith Edwards, a parent, commended the bravery of victims who came forward. “These kids deserve justice,” she said. “We need to ensure this never happens again.”
Superintendent Dr. Sheba George emphasized the school’s commitment to accountability, stating, “There is no place at Newman for anyone who prioritizes an institution’s reputation over a student’s safety. We will fight for justice and root out abuse wherever it exists.”
Authorities have confirmed that additional victims have come forward, and the scope of the investigation now stretches across three states. Search warrants are being prepared for other institutions linked to the case.
Chief Antkowiak, who shared his own experience as a victim of child sexual assault, vowed to pursue every lead. “We will not stop until everyone responsible is held accountable,” he said.
As the investigation progresses, Newman International Academy and law enforcement officials remain under scrutiny, with calls for systemic reform echoing across the community.
As communities grapple with the recent arrests of North Texas educators accused of grooming and abusing students, many parents are left asking what steps they can take to protect their children and hold wrongdoers accountable. In a conversation with attorney Anjali Nigam, a seasoned advocate for sexual assault survivors, we explore the legal pathways available to families seeking accountability and support in these devastating situations.
Editor Darla Medina: With the arrests and ongoing investigation, many families have questions about what steps to take if their child has been a victim. What legal options are available for those sexually assaulted by a school educator?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims and their families can pursue justice through both criminal and civil avenues. On the criminal side, law enforcement will work to press charges against the perpetrator, leading to potential imprisonment or other penalties. However, families should also consider civil lawsuits, which can provide compensation for the trauma and damages suffered. These lawsuits can be directed at both the individual offender and, in some cases, the institution that failed to prevent the abuse.
Medina: How can families determine whether the school or district is liable in such cases?
Nigam: Liability often depends on whether the school demonstrated negligence. If administrators ignored warning signs, failed to act on reports of misconduct, or hired individuals without conducting thorough background checks, they could be held accountable. The law requires schools to take reasonable measures to ensure student safety. When those measures are not taken, there’s a basis for legal action.
Medina: Some parents might feel hesitant to come forward. What would you say to them?
Nigam: I understand the hesitation, but I want to emphasize that coming forward is a powerful step—not just for your family, but for others who may also be suffering in silence. Reporting these incidents can help prevent future harm and hold institutions to a higher standard of accountability. Families should also know they are not alone; there are victim advocacy organizations and legal professionals ready to guide them through the process.
Families impacted by sexual abuse at the hands of a school coach or teacher deserve answers, accountability, and support. If your child has suffered, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Contact us today for a free consultation—our team is here to listen, guide you through your options, and fight for the justice your family deserves.
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